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Gout

Published on March 5, 2025 at 8:00 / Updated on March 19, 2025 at 8:00

(Gouty arthritis)

Gout is a painful condition that develops when crystals are deposited in joints and soft tissues. These crystals are formed from accumulated uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is produced when our bodies break down purines, which are present in our cells and some foods.

Gout usually develops in adults and is rare in children. It develops earlier in men (between 30 and 45 years old) than in women (after age 55), but the men and women are equally affected after age 65.

Symptoms

Gout attacks often start overnight and in the early morning hours. They are unpredictable and can occur a few days or months apart, and lasting from a few hours to a few weeks. The first attack usually affects a single joint, and is accompanied by redness, swelling and severe pain. The joints in the lower limbs are most commonly affected (knees, ankles, feet). The first attack often occurs at the base of the big toe.

Treatment

Preventing gout flares
Since foods rich in purines can trigger an attack, it is important to limit their consumption. Purine-rich foods include:
  • red meat and offal;
  • certain fish and seafood;
  • alcoholic beverages, particularly beer;
  • sugar, most notably fructose, which is found in soft drinks.
If need be, you may want to consult a dietitian who will be able to help you make changes to your diet. Dehydration can also trigger attacks. Drinking plenty of sugar- and alcohol-free fluids is recommended, especially water.
Other factors such as stress, hypertension, excess weight and chronic kidney diseases can also trigger an attack. Exercising regularly is therefore a good way to prevent attacks by reducing stress, regulating blood pressure and helping maintain a healthy weight. What's more, good blood circulation helps the kidneys eliminate uric acid more efficiently.
Finally, medication can lower uric acid blood level. There are two categories for medication that can help prevent attacks: those that increase the elimination of uric acid and those that reduce its production.
Treating gout flares
Treatment of a gout flare aims to relieve pain and swelling quickly. Anti-inflammatories are the treatment of choice and are particularly effective when started at the first signs of an attack. Other medications may be prescribed depending on the person's medical condition or other medications they are already taking.
Resting and keeping the joint elevated is also recommended. You can apply cold to relieve pain, in 20-minute periods, with a 20-minute break in between.

Always watch your diet:

it has a strong impact on your health!

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